Many organisms reproduce by cell division.

Sexual Reproduction- joining of an egg and sperm cell, one from each of two parents. Offspring are genetically unique Have a mixture of genes from both parents Asexual Reproduction- creation of offspring from a single parent and does not involve the joining of gametes. Offspring are genetically identical to each other and the single parent.

Most prokaryotes reproduce through binary fission. Binary fission- asexual reproduction of a single celled organism by division into two daughter cells genetically identical to the parent cell. parent cell DNA duplicates cell begins to divide daughter cells

Mitotic Reproduction Some eukaryotes reproduce through mitosis. - Usually simple plants and animals There are three types: Budding Fragmentation Vegetative Reproduction

Budding forms a new organism from a small projection growing on the surface of the parent. Hydra Yeast

Fragmentation is the splitting of the parent into pieces that each grow into a new organism.

Vegetative Reproduction forms a new plant from the modification of a stem or underground structure on the parent plant.

Environment determines what form of reproduction is most advantageous. Asexual reproduction is an advantage in consistently favorable conditions. Sexual reproduction is an advantage in changing conditions.

What are other advantages for asexual reproduction? All organisms can potentially reproduce. - Male and female have offspring Don’t have to look for a mate. - takes time, energy need specific structures, signals, and behaviors